The Opioid Crisis

More than 2 million people in the United States have a substance use disorder related to opioids, whether heroin or painkillers such as oxycodone, according to national studies.

In Cook County, approximately three people die every day from an opioid-related overdose, ultimately leaving more people dead in a year than gun violence or car crashes.

For those struggling with opioid addiction, as well as their friends or family, it is important to know that relapse is not uncommon. For more information about opioids and addiction, please visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

There is always hope.

Below you will find resources to help guide treatment efforts for yourself or a loved one.

Additionally, if someone you know uses opioids, you can equip yourself to save a life by obtaining naloxone, an easy-to-use and readily available drug that can reverse an opioid overdose. (Naloxone is not a form of treatment for addiction.)

Naloxone is typically administered via nasal spray or syringe and can be obtained without a prescription from pharmacies. Just ask your local pharmacist about availability and cost. Naloxone may also be available for free from the community organizations listed below. For information on obtaining naloxone you can also email opioid.help@cookcountyil.gov.

Wake the NationCassandra Wingert(708) 785-0291wakethenation@live.comYou may set up an appointment for training and naloxone acquisition by emailing Cassandra Wingert at Wake the Nation. The organization serves all of Cook County with a relatively greater presence in Western Springs, La Grange, La Grange Park, Westchester, Brookfield, Lyons, Berwyn, Stickney, Cicero and Hodgkins.